- Must visit
Musée Matisse
Museum dedicated to Henri Matisse, with paintings, drawings, cut-outs, and personal objects in a historic villa in Cimiez.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Madrid to Nice
Showing times and prices for Jul 02
Cheapest price
$194
Average price
$194
Fastest journey
1 d 14 m
Average duration
1 d 14 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
976 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Madrid to Nice is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Madrid to Nice will cost around $194 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $194.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Madrid to Nice without transferring at least once.
12:50 PM24h14Madrid1:04 PMNice$1941One-way1 transfer
- 12:50 PM24h14Madrid1:04 PMNice$1941One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Madrid to Nice
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Madrid to Nice among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $44. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 35m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.3 - 0.9kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $44, and a flight costs an average of $36.
Distance: 606 miles (976 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$194 Average price | $217 Average price | $81 Average price Cheapest | $245 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
10h 32m Average total duration 10h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 35m Average total duration Fastest 3h 35m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 19h 24m Average total duration 18h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 12h 39m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.3 - 0.9kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 2.9 - 5.8kg CO2 emissions | 1.0 - 2.4kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Madrid to Nice is a bus with an average price of $81 (€67).
This is compared to other travel options from Madrid to Nice:
A bus is $113 (€93) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Madrid to Nice costing on average $194 (€160).
A bus is $135 (€111) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Madrid to Nice costing on average $217 (€178).
The fastest way to travel from Madrid to Nice is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 35m.
Other travel options to Nice take longer:
Train takes on average 10h 2m.
Bus takes on average 18h 54m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Madrid and Nice including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Nice among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 2h 37m faster (10h 2m by train vs 12h 39m by car) and roughly $51 (€42) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($194 (€160) vs $245 (€202)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Compare prices and tickets Madrid to Nice by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Why should you book Madrid to Nice trains with Omio?
SNCF | TGV INOUI as well as iryo, SNCF | Intercités, Renfe Viajeros and more offer trains services from Madrid to Nice.
Omio is the only official third party seller for SNCF | TGV INOUI tickets.
Why book with Omio vs SNCF | TGV INOUI?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for SNCF | TGV INOUI, but also compare tickets for the likes of iryo, SNCF | Intercités or Renfe Viajeros to find the best option for your trip from Madrid to Nice.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare SNCF | TGV INOUI with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Madrid to Nice.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Madrid to Nice?
The best time to book your train from Madrid to Nice is 77 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Madrid to Nice route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Madrid to Nice per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Madrid to Nice.
Trains
from $16Buses
from $93Flights
from $244Journey information
Overview: Train from Madrid to Nice
Spain
France
Trains from Madrid to Nice run on average 1 times per day, taking around 10h 2m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $194 (€160) but you can travel from only $36 (€29) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 00:14, the last at 19:25. The fastest train covers the 606 miles (976 km) distance in 24h 14m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $36 (€29)
Distance 606 miles (976 km) |
Average train duration 10h 2m |
Cheapest ticket price $194 (€160) |
Trains per day 1 |
Fastest train 24h 14m |
First train 12:14 AM |
Last train 7:25 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 77 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $36 (€29)
Train companies: SNCF | TGV INOUI, iryo, SNCF | Intercités, Renfe Viajeros from Madrid to Nice trainsSNCF | TGV INOUI, iryo, SNCF | Intercités, Renfe Viajeros trains will get you between Madrid and Nice from $36 (€29). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
SNCF | TGV INOUI
About
SNCF's TGV INOUI is a premium high-speed train service operating across France and to other European cities. Launched in 2017, it aims to provide an enhanced travel experience with greater comfort, connectivity, and services compared to traditional TGV services. TGV INOUI trains offer features like adjustable seats, electrical outlets, fold-down tables, and dedicated luggage spaces. Passengers can enjoy onboard Wi-Fi and access to the TGV INOUI portal for entertainment and journey information. The service also includes a "Bistro TGV INOUI" for dining, with options for online ordering. SNCF is also introducing a new generation of TGV INOUI trains from 2026, which will be more modular, energy-efficient, and 97% recyclable.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
1 hand luggage + 2 pieces of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, end of carriages, between seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund conditions depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car (not all trains), at-seat service in 1st class, snack bar/cafe
Seat reservation
Second class: Optional, additional fee. First class: Included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, boarding assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers: Free. Large dogs: Paid ticket required. Guide dogs: Free
Quiet zone
iryo
About
iryo is a new brand from railway operator ILSA operating in Spain since 2022. iryo uses Frecciarossa 1000 trains which are modern, can travel at up to 360km/h and have a minimal environmental impact. iryo’s Frecciarossa trains have different classes, all of which come with free unlimited WiFi, power sockets, toilets and an onboard entertainment portal where you can watch films and TV series. The main classes are: Infinita Class, Singular Café Class, Singular Class, Inicial Class. These new trains take 2 hours and 30 minutes to travel between Madrid and Barcelona. They depart from Madrid Atocha and Barcelona Sants stations, and stop in Zaragoza along the way. iryo services also cover Madrid, Cuenca, Valencia, Alicante, Córdoba, Seville and Málaga.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
1 cabin bag (36x56x26cm) and 1 handbag (36x30x10cm)
Luggage storage
Overhead compartments and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to fare conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Restaurant car with Mediterranean cuisine, at-seat service in both classes
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and assistance available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed free. Large dogs need paid ticket
Quiet zone
SNCF | Intercités
About
SNCF Intercités is the brand used by France's national railway company, SNCF, for its non-high-speed, long and medium-distance services on the classic rail network. Established in 2006, it encompasses routes not served by the TGV network, including both day and overnight trains. Intercités connects major regional cities and offers an alternative for destinations not on the high-speed lines, such as Paris to Clermont-Ferrand, Bordeaux to Marseille, and Nantes to Lyon. These trains are known for being comfortable and air-conditioned, with services like luggage space and, on some lines, Wi-Fi.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
1 piece of hand luggage and 2 pieces of luggage free of charge
Luggage storage
Luggage racks at the end of carriages and overhead storage
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation possible according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled by SNCF
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Bar-buffet car with snacks and drinks, or trolley service depending on route
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservation, additional fee applies. Free in 1st class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, assistance service must be booked 48h in advance
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require paid ticket. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
Renfe Viajeros
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
24h 14m
Cheapest Price
$194 (€160)
Renfe Viajeros frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Nice
Things to do in Nice
Discover the best of Nice — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Nice trip today.
- Must visit
Musée Marc Chagall
National museum housing one of the largest public collections of Marc Chagall's works, especially his Biblical Message series.
- Recommended
MAMAC
Nice's modern and contemporary art museum, known for Pop Art, Nouveau Réalisme, and rooftop views.
- Must visit
Promenade des Anglais
Nice's iconic seafront promenade, ideal for walking, cycling, and classic Riviera views along the Bay of Angels.
- Must visit
Colline du Château
Castle Hill park and viewpoint with panoramic views over Old Nice, the port, and the Mediterranean.
- Must visit
Vieux Nice
The historic old town, known for narrow lanes, colorful facades, lively squares, and a quintessential Nice atmosphere.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Socca
A thin chickpea-flour pancake baked in a wood-fired oven. It is one of Nice’s most iconic street foods, best eaten hot with pepper.
- Gluten-free
Salade Niçoise
The classic salad of Nice, typically made with tomatoes, hard-boiled eggs, anchovies or tuna, olives, and raw vegetables. It is a defining local specialty.
Pissaladière
A Niçois onion tart topped with anchovies and black olives. It is a traditional snack that reflects the city’s Provençal and Mediterranean flavors.
JAN
An acclaimed fine-dining restaurant offering refined tasting menus in an elegant setting. A strong choice for a high-end meal in Nice.
Acchiardo
A long-running family restaurant in Old Nice known for hearty Niçois classics and warm service. A dependable choice for traditional regional dishes.
La Merenda
A famed intimate bistro serving authentic Niçois cuisine such as petits farcis and daube. Rustic, simple, and highly respected for traditional cooking.
Euro
Prices are above average for France, especially near the seafront. Budget options exist, but hotels and dining in central areas can be pricey.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-18 for a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- EUR 25-45 per person.
- Fine dining
- EUR 80+ per person.
- Coffee
- EUR 2.50-4.50 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Leaving 5-10% for very good restaurant service is appreciated. Round up for taxis. Small tips are optional in cafés and hotels.
Lignes d'Azur Tickets
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 1.70 EUR
- Day pass
- 7.00 EUR
To the city center
Nice-Ville, Nice -> Place Massena, Nice
- Distance
- 1.2 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- You can use contactless bank cards on buses and trams via the official ticketing system, but buying in the app is often simpler.
- Validate your ticket at the start of each journey and keep it until the end of inspection.
Traveling by train from Madrid to Nice
Traveling between Madrid and Nice offers a scenic journey through the heart of Europe, with convenient train connections provided by Renfe-SNCF, SNCF | Intercités, and TGV INOUI. These services ensure a comfortable ride as you traverse picturesque landscapes while enjoying modern amenities on board. Whether you're heading to explore the vibrant culture of Madrid or bask in the Mediterranean charm of Nice, these trains provide an efficient way to connect two beautiful cities.
Train Connection: Madrid to Nice
The train journey from Madrid to Nice takes approximately 20 hours and 26 minutes, with a total of 1 connection per day. This route is not direct, requiring a transfer during the trip.
Madrid to Nice Train Connection
The first and last daily journey from Madrid to Nice departs at 21:10. This schedule allows travelers the opportunity to enjoy an evening departure, making it convenient for those looking to maximize their time in both cities.
Train Tickets Price for Madrid to Nice
The cheapest ticket price for the train connection from Madrid to Nice is €26. The average ticket price typically hovers around €206, making it a more economical option if you book in advance or look out for special deals.
Exploring the Wonders of Nice: A Journey Through History and Beauty
Welcome to the Promenade des Anglais, a stunning waterfront boulevard that has been a symbol of Nice since its creation in the 18th century. This iconic promenade not only offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea but also reflects the city's rich history as a favored destination for aristocrats and artists alike. As you stroll along this vibrant stretch, take note of its unique blue chairs—known as "Les Cagnards"—which invite you to relax and soak in the sun.
Next, we ascend Castle Hill (Colline du Château), where you'll discover remnants of an ancient fortress that once protected Nice from invaders. The hill is significant not just for its historical value but also for providing one of the most panoramic views over both Old Town and Baie des Anges—a perfect spot for capturing unforgettable photographs. Unique features include lush gardens filled with exotic plants and cascading waterfalls that create an oasis amidst urban life.
Finally, we arrive at Nice Cathedral (Cathédrale Sainte-Réparate de Nice), which stands proudly in Place Rossetti as a testament to Baroque architecture dating back to the 17th century. This cathedral holds great significance as it honors Saint Reparata, patron saint of Nice; inside, you'll find exquisite artwork and intricate details reflecting centuries-old craftsmanship. One standout feature is its striking bell tower adorned with colorful tiles—a true gem within this historic cityscape waiting to be explored!
FAQs: Trains from Madrid to Nice
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid to Nice by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Nice, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Madrid to Nice can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $194 (€160), while the average price is around $194 (€160).
The train from Madrid to Nice runs once a day and takes approximately 24h 14m.
The distance by train from Madrid to Nice is 606 miles (976 km).
The first train from Madrid to Nice leaves at 12:14 AM.
The last train from Madrid to Nice leaves at 7:25 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Madrid to Nice.
There is no direct train service currently available from Madrid to Nice.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Madrid to Nice.
The cheapest way to get from Madrid to Nice is by flight, with a cost of around $36 (€29).
The train journey from Madrid to Nice offers scenic views, including glimpses of the Spanish countryside, the Pyrenees Mountains, and the picturesque landscapes of southern France, making it a visually appealing route.
A day trip from Madrid to Nice is not feasible as the journey takes 24h 14m. The distance is 606 miles (976 km). There are 2 trains per day.
In Nice, you can explore the vibrant Cours Saleya Market, visit the stunning Nice Cathedral, and enjoy world-class performances at the Nice Opera House. Discover the beauty of Phoenix Park's botanical gardens and zoo, or take a boat tour along the French Riviera's coastline. Don't miss a stroll along the Promenade des Anglais, the panoramic views from Castle Hill, or the artistic treasures at Musée Matisse and the Marc Chagall National Museum. Immerse yourself in the charm of Old Town (Vieux Nice) with its narrow streets and baroque architecture.
To fully experience Nice, its beaches, historic sites, and local cuisine, a stay of 3 to 4 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Madrid to Nice.
Since both Madrid and Nice are in the Schengen Area, a passport is not required for European Union (EU) or Schengen-associated country citizens. A national ID card is sufficient.
Popular day trips by train from Nice include Monaco - Monte-Carlo, Cannes, Menton, Sanremo, Antibes.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Nice among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
France uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards for most transactions, especially in cities and larger establishments, but carrying some cash is advisable for small vendors, markets, and rural areas where card acceptance may be limited.
In Nice, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the Promenade des Anglais and public transport. Common scams include fake petitions and distraction tactics used by street vendors or performers. It's advisable to watch personal belongings closely and avoid engaging with aggressive sellers or unsolicited offers. Staying in well-lit areas at night and using official taxis or transport services can also enhance safety.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
More options for your journey from Madrid to Nice
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Nice and Madrid
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